The Jewelers of America’s 11th annual JA Affiliate Design Competition revealed a strong two-tone trend as well as a taste for color and versatility. A panel of judges, including retailers and jewelry editors, chose the top award winners during the JA New York Show in February. Buyers at the show, meanwhile, chose their own favorite, Best of Show—a necklace by Jeffrey Dunnington, Houston, Texas.

Dunnington’s design was a necklace in 18k yellow gold with a 14.98-ct. Hale-Bopp Auroro black opal in platinum wiring with five diamonds.

Other winners were Virginia P. Anderson, T.K. Anderson Jewelry, Athens, Ga., for the $1,000 and under category; Karen Feldman, Feldman Design Fine Jewelry, Emmaus, Pa., for the $1,001 to $3,000 category; and Russ Copping, Aucoin Hart Jewelers, Metairie, La., for the $3,001 and over category.

The winners were chosen from entries submitted by jewelers around the country who are members of Jewelers of America. Each piece was judged on craftsmanship, marketability, practicality/wearability, and overall design.